Chevy Colorado prototype (photo: J.C.)
These Chevy Colorado prototypes were caught on a Michigan highway with camouflage on the front. These truck prototypes appear to be a global version of the Chevrolet Colorado midsize truck that are currently available in Thailand, Australia (as Holden), and other markets. The interesting part is the camouflage on the front that suggests at least a refresh of the truck that may be coming soon.
The current generation of the U.S.-spec Chevy Colorado has been around since the 2015 model. The truck has received several updates over the last several years, including a 2.8L turbo-diesel engine, 8-speed automatic for the 3.6L gas V6, ZR2 off-road model, Chevrolet’s latest infotainment system, ZR2 Bison, new optional grille, RST, and Trailer Runner packages among others.
Still the overall look, body, and the underlying chassis remain unchanged. The new 2019 Ford Ranger is going on sale in early 2019, and the 2020 Jeep Gladiator is several months away. The Chevy Colorado and the GMC Canyon need a thorough refresh to remain competitive in a midsize truck segment that is getting ever more crowded.
Chevrolet is just now rolling out the 2019 Colorado lineup in the United States. The trucks have a new “CHEVROLET” grille option. The ZR2 Bison will be available starting in January 2019. Also, new Colorado RST and Colorado Trail Runner editions are launching soon.
There are rumors that suggest that the new 2.7L Turbocharged four-cylinder engine (that launches in the 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500) is coming to the Colorado soon. It would make a great power plant for the midsize truck, but there is no official comment on this from Chevrolet yet.
Note (Op/Ed): My opinion is: the 2.7L Turbo I4 with 310 hp and 348 lb-ft of torque could actually replace two current engines in the lineup : the 3.6L V6 and the 2.8L turbo-diesel.
Here is a first look at the 2019 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison.
